5 Effective Ways To Cut Down On Drinking

Written by Contributing Author

Are you worried that you drink too much? Are you trying to get in shape for summer? Do you want to adopt a healthier lifestyle? If so, you may have decided to try and cut down on drinking. Here are some handy hints to help you along the way.

Do you know how much you drink in an average week? It can often be tricky to keep tabs on your drinking, but it’s beneficial to know where you’re starting from. Keep a diary or use an app to track your weekly intake. Write down every drink you have, and calculate how many units you consume. Many people drink more than they think without realizing. The odd drink here and there can soon add up and before you know it, you’ve exceeded your weekly goal.

2. Decide on your intentions

Once you have a good idea of your alcohol intake, you can think about whether you want to reduce your consumption, or give up drinking altogether. It’s become increasingly popular to go teetotal in recent years, especially among younger people. If you don’t drink much to begin with, you may not even miss the odd alcoholic drink. If you drink too much and you’ve acknowledged that you have a problem with drinking, it may be worth considering how to quit drinking. There are lots of charities and support groups out there that can help, and you can access a range of services through your doctor.

3. Switch up your routine

If you go for drinks after work or you’re out every Saturday night, try and vary your routine. Suggest other social activities and spend time with friends who don’t drink much. Try swapping nights at the pub for a trip to the movies. Go bowling, or have afternoon tea instead of a boozy lunch. If you spend all your time with a group of colleagues or friends that drink a lot, try and take some time out. If you see other people drinking, it may encourage you to drink more. Let your friends and family know that you’re trying to cut down, so they can support you.

If you’re busy, you’re less likely to miss alcohol. One effective way to distract your mind and get rid of stress is exercise. Exercising is not just brilliant for your body. It’s also fantastic for your mental health. When you work out, you can get rid of frustration, anger, and anxiety. Exercise also helps to clear your mind and lift your mood. Try and get into the habit of working out on a regular basis. Set yourself some goals and reward yourself when you achieve them.

If you want to cut down on drinking, it’s a good idea to change your drinking habits. Do you usually drink before you go out? Do you get rounds of shots in, as well as drinking spirits? Avoid alcoholic drinks before you go to a bar or club. Try to make sure you have a soft drink or a glass of water after each drink and set yourself a limit. If you have 2 or 3 drinks, you’ll still have a good night and you won't have to worry about waking up with a horrible hangover.